Saying “no” at work can feel harder than solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded while riding a unicycle on a tightrope. Research shows that women struggle more than men to say no, especially in the workplace.
A study by Stanford professor Laurie Rudman found that when women declined requests, they were perceived as “less likable” and “hirable” than men who did the same. What’s more, women often feel immense pressure to be agreeable, fearing negative consequences to their career and relationships if they dare utter the dreaded N-O.
I hear this all the time from my coaching clients, powerhouse women who are rising stars in their organizations but feel like they can’t say no without damaging their reputations or letting others down.
